Description

In book two of this four-volume work, Alexander explains in detail the kinds of process that are capable of generating living structure. The unfolding of living structure in natural systems is compared to the unfolding of buildings and town plans in traditional society, and then contrasted with present-day building processes. The comparison reveals deep and shocking problems which pervade the present day planning and construction of buildings. Pervasive changes are needed to create a world in which living process - and hence living structure - are possible; these are changes which are ultimately attainable only through a transformation of society. It is the use of sequences which makes it possible for each building to become unique, exactly fitted to its context, and harmonious. And it is also this use of sequences which makes it possible for people to participate effectively in the layout of their own buildings and communitiesshow more

Table of contents

PART ONE: Structure-Preserving Transformations. 1. The Principle of Unfolding Wholeness. 2. Structure-Preserving Transformations. 3. Structure-Preserving Transformations in Traditional Society. 4. Structure-Destroying Transformations in Modern Society. INTERLUDE. 5. Living Process in the Modern Era: Twentieth-century Cases Where Living Process did Occur. PART TWO: Living Processes. 6. Generated Structures. 7. A Fundamental Differentiating Process. 8. Step-by-Step Adaptation. 9. Always Helping to Enhance the Whole. 10. Always Making Centers. 11. The Sequence of Unfolding. 12. Every Part Unique. 13. Patterns: Rules for Making Centers. 14. Deep Feeling. 15. Emerging of Formal Geometry. 16. Form Language. 17. Simplicity. PART THREE: A New Paradigm for Process in Society. 18. The Character of Process in Society. 19. Massive Process Difficulties. 20. The Spread of Living Processes Throughout Society. 21. The Architect in the Third Millennium. Appendix: Am Example of a Living Process: Building a House.show more

Rating details

104 ratings

4.4 out of 5 stars

5
57% (59)

4
28% (29)

3
14% (15)

2
1% (1)

1
0% (0)

Book ratings by Goodreads

Goodreads
is the world's largest site for readers with over 50 million reviews. We're featuring millions of their reader ratings on our book pages to help you find your new favourite book.
Close
X